Tragic Stabbing Claims Life of Ambitious 16-Year-Old in Chippenham
A 16-year-old boy with "big dreams" has been named as the victim of a fatal stabbing in Chippenham, with a teenager arrested in connection with the incident. Shayne Hambakachere was found with stab wounds on London Road shortly before 4pm on Saturday and later died in hospital, Wiltshire Police confirmed on Monday.
Heartbreaking Tribute from Grieving Family
In an emotional statement shared through police, Shayne's father Emmanuel Hambakachere described his son as an ambitious, driven young man with a great sense of humour. "Shayne will be greatly missed," he said. "He had a great sense of humour and we will miss the way he laughed so loudly without any care in the world."
The tribute revealed Shayne was a hard worker who held two jobs simultaneously to fund his ambitions without asking family for money. He was also entrepreneurial, buying and reselling clothing and accessories online, using his earnings to purchase items like a large bedroom television and a Samsung S25 phone.
Active Lifestyle and School Achievements
Shayne was described as fitness-conscious, regularly attending the gym to stay fit and lean. He excelled at sprinting and was frequently selected to represent his school in competitions. At home, he was noted for his responsibility, completing daily chores without complaint and always communicating his movements to family members.
"He was very helpful around the house and did whatever was asked of him without complaining," his father said. "He was also very smart and tidy, he would not leave for school without making his bed."
Final Christmas Memories Provide Comfort
The family expressed comfort in knowing Shayne enjoyed what would become his final Christmas on December 25th, 2025. "We had a buffet and played lots of games all night and Shayne won most of them and he enjoyed every minute of it," the tribute read. "We are glad we got to share so many wonderful moments with him in the last couple of weeks."
Police Investigation and Hospital Gratitude
Wiltshire Police confirmed Shayne's next of kin have been informed and are receiving support from specially trained officers. The force has arrested a teenager in connection with the incident, though further details about the suspect haven't been released.
The family extended heartfelt thanks to medical staff at Southmead Hospital in Bristol who attempted to save Shayne's life. They particularly noted one doctor's extraordinary kindness in offering to drive from Bristol to Chippenham at 1am to collect Shayne's sister so she could say goodbye to her brother.
"We want you to know that we were touched by your kindness and we will forever be grateful," the family statement concluded.
The incident occurred on London Road in Chippenham, with emergency services responding to reports of a stabbing shortly before 4pm on Saturday. Investigations continue as police work to establish the full circumstances surrounding this tragic loss of a young life described as "brave and bold" by those who knew him best.
